Offences against Children: Philippines

(asked on 28th August 2020) - View Source

Question to the Home Office:

To ask the Secretary of State for the Home Department, what assessment she has made of the potential merits of conducting an inquiry into the potential reported increase in cases of online sexual exploitation of children in the Philippines during the covid-19 pandemic.


Answered by
Victoria Atkins Portrait
Victoria Atkins
Secretary of State for Health and Social Care
This question was answered on 8th September 2020

The Philippine Internet Crimes Against Children Center (PICACC) is a model for an enhanced global response against online sexual exploitation of children, and an example of cooperation among local and international law enforcement partners including the National Crime Agency. The Centre has provided international law enforcement agencies with the information needed to build cases against both local traffickers and foreign perpetrators.

Since its formation in February 2019 the PICACC ran 61 operations; rescued 202 victims and children-at-risk of sexual abuse and exploitation; arrested 55 suspected CSAE local traffickers; and convicted 4 traffickers

The PICACC has enabled member agencies to better understand the legal framework from numerous jurisdictions all around the world, allowing them to strengthen their ability to combat both the demand and supply side of child sexual abuse and exploitation.

Protecting those at risk from abuse and exploitation is a priority for this Government, and the Government continues to develop our understanding of the impact of COVID-19 on child sexual abuse, gathering input from law enforcement, safeguarding leads, charities, international partners and other colleagues. We are acutely aware that for some children and young people, the Coronavirus pandemic may have brought with it additional risks and dangers, as well as reducing contact with professionals and trusted adults. This Government is committed to doing everything we can to support and protect those at risk of harm both at home and abroad.

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